Sabah Maritime Aquarium – Explore Borneo’s Underwater Treasures in Kota Kinabalu
Introduction
Located within the scenic campus of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the Sabah Maritime Aquarium, officially known as the Aquarium & Marine Museum, offers a fascinating journey into Borneo’s diverse marine life. Managed by the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI), this attraction combines education, conservation, and family-friendly fun — making it one of Kota Kinabalu’s best indoor attractions for travelers seeking something beyond beaches and islands.
Atmosphere and Vibe
The aquarium has a relaxing, educational atmosphere, filled with the sounds of bubbling tanks and soft lighting that mimics the underwater world. Visitors can stroll through themed galleries that showcase coral reefs, mangrove habitats, and marine research exhibits. The museum’s design emphasizes both beauty and knowledge, perfect for families, students, and eco-tourists.
Highlights and Things to Do
1. Explore Borneo’s Marine Ecosystems
Walk through multiple aquarium tanks displaying local marine species — from colorful coral fish to sea cucumbers and crustaceans. Each exhibit recreates a specific marine habitat such as shallow reefs, mangroves, and coastal zones.
2. Visit the Marine Museum
Learn about Sabah’s maritime heritage through dioramas, preserved specimens, and educational panels. One highlight is the “Sipadan Deep Dive Diorama,” an immersive display inspired by one of the world’s most famous dive sites.
3. Family-Friendly Learning
The aquarium serves as an interactive learning space, offering insights into marine conservation, sustainable fishing, and Borneo’s unique underwater biodiversity — great for children and curious travelers.
4. Perfect Indoor Destination
As one of the few indoor attractions in Kota Kinabalu, it’s a great option for rainy days or when you prefer a relaxed, air-conditioned activity.
Why Visit the Sabah Maritime Aquarium
- It’s the only marine research-based aquarium in Borneo, combining tourism and education.
- Located within Kota Kinabalu city, it’s easily accessible for half-day trips.
- Adds variety to a Sabah itinerary that often focuses on islands and rainforests.
- Suitable for eco-tourism, families, and photography lovers.
Location
Address:
Aquarium & Marine Museum,
Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI),
Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS,
88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
GPS Coordinates: 6.0369° N, 116.1194° E
Distance from City Centre:
Approximately 10–15 minutes by car from downtown Kota Kinabalu.
Best Time to Visit
- Morning hours (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) are ideal for avoiding crowds and tour groups.
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Likas Bay, UMS Mosque, or Tun Mustapha Tower for a fulfilling day.
Ticket Information
| Category | Malaysian Visitors | Foreign Visitors | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | RM 5 | RM 10 | Affordable entry fee |
| Children | RM 2 | RM 5 | Ideal for school trips |
| Camera Pass | RM 5 | RM 5 | Optional for photography |
| Opening Hours | Tue–Thu: 9:00–13:00 / 14:00–16:00 | Closed on Mon, Sat, Sun & Public Holidays | Verify before visiting |
(Ticket prices and timings are subject to change — confirm at the UMS information counter or official Sabah Tourism site.)
Reviews
Visitors often describe the Sabah Maritime Aquarium as a “hidden gem” in Kota Kinabalu — small but packed with information. Families appreciate its educational exhibits, while marine lovers highlight the well-maintained tanks and conservation efforts. Though not as large as commercial aquariums, it’s authentic, affordable, and uniquely Bornean.
Travel Tips
- Getting There: Take Bus No. 5A from Kota Kinabalu city centre or use a Grab car (10–15 mins).
- Parking: Available inside UMS campus.
- Dress Code: Casual; wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly pathways and ramps.
- Photography: Allowed with a camera pass.
Nearby Hotels & Resorts
- The Magellan Sutera Resort – 5-star beachfront resort with family facilities.
- Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre – great for city access and short stays.
- Likas Square Apartment Hotel – ideal for families visiting UMS and nearby attractions.
Food & Drink
No in-house café, but visitors can find local eateries nearby:
- UMS Food Court (on campus – affordable Malaysian food)
- Likas Bay Seafood Restaurants – for fresh seafood after your visit.
- Jesselton Point cafés – for scenic dining by the sea (15 mins away).
FAQ
Q1: Where is the Sabah Maritime Aquarium located?
It’s inside Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), about 10–15 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city centre.
Q2: Is the aquarium suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s family-friendly with interactive and educational exhibits.
Q3: How big is the aquarium?
It’s moderately sized — more of a research-based marine museum than a commercial aquarium, focusing on Borneo’s ecosystems.
Q4: Do I need to book in advance?
Walk-ins are welcome, but group visits should arrange bookings through UMS or the Sabah Tourism Office.
Q5: What’s unique about this aquarium?
It highlights local Bornean marine life and conservation efforts, something you won’t find in other Malaysian aquariums.
Final Thoughts
The Sabah Maritime Aquarium (Aquarium & Marine Museum) is a must-visit for anyone exploring Kota Kinabalu. It may not boast giant tanks or theme-park flair, but it offers real insight into Borneo’s underwater ecosystems, backed by research and local expertise. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, family traveler, or eco-conscious visitor, this aquarium promises a rewarding and educational experience.
Comments are closed.